Coat Care 101: How to Groom Longhair & Wirehair Dachshunds at Home

Let’s be honest, Dachshunds are already walking bundles of charm, but their coats add a whole extra layer of personality. 

Longhair Dachshunds look like they stepped straight off a runway with their flowing, feathered locks, while Wirehair Doxies rock a scruffy-chic vibe that screams spunk and sass. These coats don’t just make your pup look adorable; they’re also a reflection of your Dachshund’s health and happiness. 

But here’s the catch — those luscious locks and wiry whiskers don’t magically maintain themselves. Proper grooming isn’t just about keeping your doxie camera-ready; it’s about ensuring their coat, skin, and overall comfort stay in tip-top shape for years to come. 

So, whether you’re brushing silky strands or taming wiry whiskers, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about grooming your Longhair and Wirehair Dachshunds at home! 

Grooming Longhair Dachshunds: A Step-by-Step Guide 

Longhair Dachshunds are known for their elegant, flowing coats with feathering around the ears, legs, and chest. Gorgeous? Absolutely. High-maintenance? You bet. 

Without proper care, their coats can quickly become matted and tangled. 

Grooming Essentials: Here’s What You’ll Need

• Slicker brush (for detangling) 
• Wide-tooth comb (for feathering areas) 
• Dog-safe detangling spray 
• Grooming scissors (for trimming stubborn mats) 
• Nail clippers and styptic powder 
• Dog shampoo and conditioner (formulated for long coats) 
• Blow dryer (on cool/low setting)

Longhair Dachshund Grooming 101: Trust the Process

1. Start with a Detangling Session. Before baths, gently brush your Dachshund’s coat to remove tangles. Pay special attention to feathered areas where mats like to hide (ears, chest, legs, and tail). 

2. Bath Time! Use lukewarm water and a long-coat dog shampoo, followed by conditioner to keep their locks silky. Rinse thoroughly—residue can cause itchiness. 

3. Dry + Fluff. Use a blow dryer on the cool/low setting while brushing to prevent tangling. Don’t let your pup air dry unless you want a matted mess later. 

4. Trim the Extras. Lightly trim feathered areas if they’re dragging on the ground or gathering dirt. Be cautious around paws and ears. 

5. Don’t Forget Nails & Ears. Longhair Dachshunds are prone to ear infections thanks to their floppy ears, so clean them gently with a vet-approved solution after baths. 

Why Proper Grooming Matters. Neglecting grooming can lead to painful mats, skin irritation, and even infections. Regular care keeps their coat shiny, manageable, and comfortable, and makes cuddles way more enjoyable.

Grooming Wirehair Dachshunds: Your Step-by-Step Guide 

Wirehair Dachshunds bring terrier energy to the mix with a unique double coat: a soft undercoat topped with coarse, wiry hair. 

Their trademark “beard” and bushy eyebrows give them that mischievous, scruffy look, but this style requires regular upkeep, especially hand-stripping. 

Grooming Essentials: Here’s What You’ll Need

• Slicker brush (for daily brushing) 

• Fine-tooth comb 

• Grooming rake (for undercoat) 

• Hand-stripping knife or stripping stone (for seasonal coat maintenance) 

• Dog shampoo for harsh coats 

• Nail clippers and styptic powder 

Wirehair Dachshund Grooming 101: What to Know

1. Daily Brushing. Wirehairs don’t mat as easily as Longhairs, but brushing helps remove dirt and loose fur. 

2. Hand-Stripping. Every 3–4 months, use a stripping knife to gently pull out dead hairs from the topcoat. This keeps the wiry texture intact and prevents the coat from softening over time. (Tip: if you’re new to stripping, ask a groomer to demonstrate before trying it yourself.) 

3. Baths With Caution. Too many baths can soften the wire coat. Aim for once every 2–3 months, or when your pup gets extra messy. 

4. Beard & Brows TLC. Their scruffy facial hair is adorable but prone to trapping food and dirt. Wipe it down regularly to keep it clean. 

5. Nail & Ear Care. Like Longhairs, Wirehairs need routine nail trims and ear cleanings. 

Keep in Mind. Skipping hand-stripping can cause their coats to become dull, itchy, and uncomfortable. Proper care keeps them looking sharp while preserving their iconic terrier-like texture.

Special Grooming Considerations: Puppies, Seniors, & Gender 

• Puppies: Start brushing early so grooming feels normal. Use softer brushes and keep sessions short and sweet. Reward with treats!

• Seniors: Older Dachshunds may have thinner coats and more sensitive skin. Use gentler brushes and don’t over-bathe.

• Males vs. Females: Males may need more frequent feathering trims (especially Longhairs), while females can sometimes shed more seasonally. Just be sure to adjust grooming as needed! 

The Perks of Proper Dachshund Grooming 

When you stick to a consistent grooming routine, you’re not just keeping your Dachshund looking dapper — you’re investing in their health and happiness. 

Here’s what regular grooming ensures: 

• A shiny, healthy coat free from mats and tangles 

• Reduced risk of skin infections and hot spots 

• Comfortable, happy pups who love being handled 

• More bonding time (grooming sessions = extra cuddles!) 

Neglecting grooming duties, on the other hand, can mean painful mats, itchy skin, and vet visits that could have been avoided. When it comes down to it, grooming is truly one of the easiest ways to show your Dachshund how much you care! 

Adopt Your Next Doxie With Dapper Doxies 

At Dapper Doxies, we’re more than just dog breeders — we’re lifelong Dachshund lovers dedicated to raising happy, healthy pups who are as stylish as they are sweet. From the silky elegance of Longhairs to the scruffy charm of Wirehairs, every one of our puppies comes from carefully chosen, genetically tested lines. 

If you’re ready to bring home a new Dachshund (and all the grooming fun that comes with it), we’d love to help you start your journey. 

Contact us today to learn more about our upcoming litters and how you can adopt your next adorable doxie.